Sinusitis is a common medical condition characterized by the swelling and inflammation of the nasal passages. The condition interferes with normal bodily functions, including proper mucus drainage and your ability to smell or breathe through your nose. In addition to sinus pain, you may feel facial discomfort, as well as a sore throat and pain in your jaw and ears. The medical condition may be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, as well as by a deviated septum and nasal polyps. After a thorough examination, our doctor will determine the best option for treating your sinusitis. The goal is to improve drainage, reduce the swelling and clear up any infection.
Non-surgical treatment options may include prescription medications and non-surgical procedures, such as flushing. In addition to pain and fever medications, you may be asked to use saline solutions and decongestants. Nasal sprays containing corticosteroids may also be prescribed to reduce the inflammation of the lining of your nose.
Viral and bacterial infections often run their course in a few weeks. If you do not respond favorably to conservative treatments, you may have chronic sinusitis caused by another underlying medical condition. In these cases, our doctor may recommend surgery.
Using an endoscopic procedure or navigated sinus surgery, our ENT in McAllen can carefully explore your sinus passages to determine the cause of your chronic sinusitis. Depending upon the diagnosis, our doctor may remove tissue or take away the portion of a polyp causing the nasal blockage. This will enlarge a narrow opening to promote drainage. The surgical procedure may also reposition a deviated septum so that the cartilage is properly centered between the nasal passages. The extent of the procedure will be based on the amount and exact nature of your nasal blockage, among other things.
Make an appointment at Ayala ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery if you are experiencing nasal or sinus pain and/or discomfort. Sinus infections usually clear up when diagnosed and treated early. Severe cases of chronic sinusitis will require more direct intervention if you are to experience any kind of relief. The quicker that your condition is diagnosed, the sooner appropriate treatment options can be started to make you feel better and improve your quality of life. Our office is located in McAllen, TX. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your sinusitis.